THE POWER OF YOUR STORY

Everyone has a story. Some of us have had seemingly perfect lives, while others have been through the ringer. Some have struggled with little things, while others lives have been an everyday battle. Some have visible scars and memories, while others hide pain and anger. Everyone is different which makes each story unique.

We have all been through high school, experienced the unconditional judgment and pressure to live up to standards put in place by other people. Being one of the youngest here, and just recently graduated high school, I seemed to still have that mindset; not necessarily putting on a show for everyone, but being cautious and really being me from the start. There are so many different people here, from every different culture and background, which leaves none of us the same. Guys and girls, young and old, tattooed and pierced, but we all have one thing in common... a passion and uncontrollable love for God. And so the moment where walls came down and realization that we are all in this together started to hit me (well all of us) was the sharing of testimonies. God works in each persons life differently, leaving us with a unique journey. And sometimes by our human nature and prejudgments, we miss out on the opportunity to really get to know someone. But put 45 of us all in a circle and tell us we aren't leaving until we each share our testimony, and all that changes.

God really placed James 2:13 on my heart throughout the process of hearing each persons personal story. James reads that "mercy triumphs over judgment." To me this was so powerful because I realized that i still had my "high school filter" on and was making unhealthy judgements about my fellow classmates. (which i have apologized and restored those relationships already) Its something we all do, but its not okay. God revealed to me that having mercy on these people and loving them the way He loves them is my only "job" here. I am in no position to judge them or categorize them. Each one has been through something different, but yet we are here now with a heart hungering for more of God. And so with that, my eyes were opened and ways were changed. It truly amazes me as I sit here thinking about the extremely cool, interesting, fun, and comical people i have met in the last two days. People i not only get to spend the next 5 months with, but will people that speak into my life and are going to be apart of this life changing experience. I guess in a simple 30 hours, God showed me something truly incredible and helped me change my heart and mind. And so i challenge you to step past your prejudgments, comfort zone, or ideas and really get to know someone you normally wouldnt have. Focus on them, their story, and how God has worked in their life. I promise you your life will be impacted greatly in one way or the other!